Decorator or Architect or Both?

[Anonymous]

Today I had a structural engineer come to my house to tell me whether I can remove walls in my basement to expand the recreation area. Fortunately, none of the walls I want to remove are load bearing so I can proceed with my plan. However, I do need help configuring some sort of closet for the water heater/furnace as well as a closet for additional storage space. Would an interior decorator be able to help with that or do I need an architect? I have a couple of other projects for the decorator but no other need for an architect if that matters. TIA!

[Anonymous]

I doubt you need an architect for this. I would google images for disguising a water heater etc. and get some ideas, e.g.:

https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3256/2781497769_54c27f1d4f_b.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/4f/7d/d3/4f7dd388db310f9a670629a052cd4eca.jpg

Then b/f you go ahead with any plans make sure the person who's going to repair it can access it appropriately.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Today I had a structural engineer come to my house to tell me whether I can remove walls in my basement to expand the recreation area. Fortunately, none of the walls I want to remove are load bearing so I can proceed with my plan. However, I do need help configuring some sort of closet for the water heater/furnace as well as a closet for additional storage space. Would an interior decorator be able to help with that or do I need an architect? I have a couple of other projects for the decorator but no other need for an architect if that matters. TIA!

May I ask what the fee was for the consult with the structural engineer?

[Anonymous]

Thanks to pp #1. To pp #2, I no longer live in the DC area but I still frequent this board. I live in a lower cost of living area so the costs may not be comparable. But he quoted me about $800 for travel time, a 2 hour meeting and a report.

[Anonymous]

Thanks!! $800 or so sounds reasonable.